Design resource
Understanding Floor Plans, Sections and Elevations
A beginner-friendly explanation of how architectural drawings communicate design.
What It Means
A floor plan is a horizontal representation of spaces and their relationships. It typically communicates room use, openings, circulation and dimensions.
How It Works in Practice
An elevation shows an external or internal vertical face, while a section cuts through the building to illustrate heights and the relationship between levels. Each drawing answers a different spatial question.
Practical Takeaway
A coordinated package provides clearer understanding than any single drawing, especially where several floors or building systems meet.
For project-specific decisions, your design team should review the actual requirements and source documents.